CW Straight Key SUCCESS!, CW Ham Radio QSO is So Fun!

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IC-7300, Straight Key SUCCESS!, CW So Fun!
1ST EVER St8 Key SUCCESS! | CW QSO So Fun! | Icom 7300
Icom IC 7300 is Icom's latest SDR HF/50 MHz Transceiver. It offers 100W of power and receives from 0.030 to 74.800 MHZ. It operates on SSB, CW, RTTY, AM and FM modes. The Icom IC-7300 features a RF direct sampling system, 15 discrete band-pass filters, a real-time spectrum scope and a large 4.3" color touch screen display. Additional features of the IC-7300 include a built-in automatic antenna tuner, 101 channels, SD memory card slot and 3 CW functions. In the box you will find the IC-7300 transceiver, a HM-219 hand microphone, DC power cable, fuses and plugs.
Output power: 100W (25W AM)
RX Frequencies: 0.030-74.800
RF direct sampling system
The IC-7300 employs an RF direct sampling system, where RF signals are directly convert to digital data. Then processed in the FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), making it possible to simplify the circuit construction as well as reduce noise that can mask weak signals.
The new “IP+” improves the 3rd order intercept point (IP3) performance improving the ability to copy a weak signal that is adjacent to either a strong interfering signal. In this process, A/D converter is optimized to reduce or eliminate signal distortion.
RMDR and phase noise characteristics
The IC-7300’s RMDR is about 97dB* (typical value) improving the Phase Noise characteristics by about 15dB (at 1 kHz frequency separation). The superior Phase Noise characteristics reduce noise components for both receive and transmit signals.
At 1 kHz frequency separation (received frequency: 14.2MHz, MODE: CW, IF BW: 500Hz)
15 discrete band-pass filters
The RF Direct Sampling is protected by an array of bandpass filters. The signal passes through one of the fifteen bandpass filters, where signals outside the passband are rejected. To reduce the insertion loss, the IC-7300 utilizes High Q factor coils.
Large color touch screen
The large 4.3” color TFT touch LCD offers intuitive operation of functions, settings, and various operational visual aids such as the band scope, waterfall function, and audio scope.
Like on the high-end rigs, the waterfall shows a change of signal strength over a period of time and allows you to find weak signals that may not be apparent on the spectrum scope.
Use the audio scope function to observe various AF TX/RX characteristics such as microphone compressor level, filter width, notch filter width and keying waveform in the CW mode. Image below shows the Audio scope with the waterfall function and the oscilloscope.
Real-Time spectrum scope
You no longer have to choose whether to listen to the audio or have the spectrum scope sweep for signals as the IC-7300’s real-time spectrum scope offers the simultaneous operations found in some of the more expensive rigs! This means you can use either the spectrum scope or the waterfall to quickly move to an intended signal while listening to the receiver audio. The ‘7300’s touch screen introduces a “Magnify” function. So, when you first touch the scope screen around the intended signal, the touched part is magnified. A second touch of the scope screen changes the operating frequency and allows you to accurately tune.

[@forthy62]

Great video again. I need to practice cw again. Passed the exam 40 years ago :-) Try a used Junkers key It is one of the best straight keys you can get. 73 Stephan, DF6PA

[@demizer1968]

One of the best things about your CW videos is the way you put up what's being xmitted and rcvd. Helps me with relearning CW a whole bunch. Thanks for that. :-)

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah, thank you. It's actually a ton of work, but I started getting feedback and without out it it excludes a lot of people. So now I do it no matter what. Thank you for recognizing!

[@K9KMVTheUnluckyHam]

Thanks for the vid Tom. Further motivation for me to keep going with my cw. I’ve been learning since mid December and it’s slowly starting to come together. Your videos with the captions are really helpful.

[@hamradiocq]

Yes, it's pretty rewarding I have to say. Just practice like hell and it will come.

[@KX4UL]

Nice job Tom! I love CW and I love that you are keeping it alive and well. You are inspiring so many to try CW or brush up on their CW skills. "James B." made some excellent suggestions below. I am no expert on a straight key, but to expand on that, here is my 2 cents worth according to what little I know and have been told by experienced hams. I noticed you are jabbing at the key with one finger and removing it, making it even more difficult to stabilize they key and making even more noise. One suggestion is to place your index finger on the top of the knob and your thumb and middle finger on the side of the knob (the reason for the flange below the knob is to rest your thumb and middle finger and lightly grip the knob) and never letting go. That way you have total control of the key at all times and are less likely to over attack the key with strictly down strokes then removing the finger. You'll also notice the key is less likely to slide around. This can also be accomplished with a knob without the flange. With practice your movement will have less travel, more control, your key will be more quiet and your Dits and Dahs lengths much more equal. Straight keys are fun! Good video!

[@jamesk0ua]

Tom, relax the tension on the key so that it keys easier, and tighten the spacing between the contacts to that the throw of the key only requires a small amount of movement Then get your arm up on the desk to rest it and/or a wrist rest. You MUST get more comfortable, and decrease your effort. You may need to lower your chair. You are working yourself to death. It will wear you out. If the spacing between the contacts is very low, the "clicking" sound will be much lessened also. AND wearing headphones will help there too, allowing you to listen to the side-tone and better ignore the clicking from the key. Also get that key nailed down either by literally fastening it to the desk or get/build a heavy base. I use a large piece of steel. Another method is build a long thin base that your arm/wrist rests on and helps hold the key down by your own weight. Paddles were invented for a reason, Once learned, they are much easier and faster. BUT you can do much to improve your straight key technique. Tnx and happy keying de James K0UA

[@hamradiocq]

Everything you said is correct. I'm tense, I'm trying too hard...just exactly what you'd expect from a newbie! ha lol. I can't really wear headphones until I figure out how to split out the audio to the camera. My chair is too high for sure. Thanks for the great detailed comment. It will all be asborbed I promise.

[@SigP229R]

Absolutely. My first suggestion. Also try to find your self a heavier base, that will help keep it from hopping around on you. The J38 was an excellent key used for military training in WWII.

[@n3awsinmsnln471]

Very good advice. Practice off the air and get a real CW op for a mentor. Straight keys are harder than most realize. But, HEY, hang in there! It's a learning curve--why we used to have the novice license. 73, Jim N3AWS

[@paulsmith6184]

Yes, straight keys are more difficult to master but I think they produce a much better and more pleasant morse. Your first time was pretty good. Don't "jab" the key, keep your fingers in contact with the "button", keep your arm off the desk(some people have suggested resting on the desk, not recommended) use a flexible wrist to get the style going. (From a 5-years ship's radio officer)

[@gt3940]

Hey Tom: Another great video, you’ve been an inspiration to me to get back on the air I’ve made a couple contacts kind of stumbling through it with the Iambic. My Son helped me out with getting the “ameco” code practice oscillator working again so I can practice, I just got a second RT320 Clansman radio and it only works CW with a straight key, plus my Son has his #19 WWII tank radio and it is AM and CW straight key only as well, so nice timing on your video more inspiration for me to get on the air with the straight key! 73

[@hamradiocq]

Yes, don't worry about stumbling. Try and fail and don't be afraid... we all mess up sometimes. If you even knew how many times I failed a QSO and just left. LOL

[@delicious_lunch3823]

I'm somewhat new to the CW world, and have only made a handful of CW contacts using straight keys (I've been trying to make at least one a day for the past month or so), but I've found that a relatively inexpensive straight key that I enjoy using is the Chinese Army (PLA) key. There's a write up about it on Morse Express and a page on eham, and they can be found on eBay for $50-$60. They're still in production in China, so not hard to find. Very heavy metal base, the tension and spacing is very adjustable, and the knob feels very nice (almost like a flame proof knob). Thanks for the videos!

[@hamradiocq]

Wow I looked up that key you mentioned looks very nice / tough. I want one!

[@jeffdyer2109]

Your videos are inspiring. I have a suggestion could you do a short video about the reverse beacon network and how to use it? Keep up the good work. I learn a lot from you and appreciate the effort .Thanks

[@hardenpt2522]

Nice! Ive been using paddles and had never tried a straight key before. I saw this Junker German key video, bought a straight key and found that its easier for me to send. The timing and anticipation of the paddles would mess me up sending. With the straight key its at my pace and timing. Solid 18wpm 🤷‍♂️🤯

[@hamradiocq]

Cool man

[@jerrykrautenstaben6584]

Just a helpful hint, when you end your sending, send either a BK (to let him know thats its his turn to send, or send SK if your done with the QSO. You can also send an AR instead of BK, but that is not as common . Listen to some QSOs on the air and you will pick up on the protocol. Good luck, your doing great.

[@hamradiocq]

Thank you for tip.

[@adventuresofbobandlana4939]

My first key was a keypad I took out of an old touchtone phone and wired the “5” button as my key. Worked fine. Have since upgraded. Glad to be back into cw. Keep you videos coming. N7KHH

[@hamradiocq]

I'd like to see that!

[@jerrykrautenstaben6584]

I also wanted to mention to try and make your "R" sound like an R rather an a "AN", when sending R R R. Alot of guys make this error and don't even know it.

[@hamradiocq]

Yup.

[@knikk77]

I was learning CW by just reading and following along the sound and text 😁 Nice!

[@hamradiocq]

Nice comment thanks

[@larryak0z672]

Good for you having fun with CW. I can't wait to get a radio! Looking at the FTDX 10. Thank you!

[@hamradiocq]

Any time!

[@miketaylor6700]

What a great video!!! Thank you. What are all the numbers you send after your name??? (15089). And Butch said 1910s. And the second guy said 18125. I don’t know enough to understand this… BK

[@oceanhome039]

I just found this channel and I love it. I come from a family of radio operators, but I am a learner. I want to use a straight key as my dad and brother did, but in a quandary as to what to buy for any equipment. I’d like a smooth operating heavy key. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[@hamradiocq]

Thank you Anne for the nice comment.

[@MyTube4Utoo]

You did a great job! That's what it's all about, just jumping in....once you know a little about what's up. You probably have already, but if not, you should join the 'SKCC' (Straight Key Century Club). It's totally free, and you'll be glad you did. Great videos.

[@hamradiocq]

I am SKCC! 15089. Thanks for the great comment.

[@MyTube4Utoo]

@@hamradiocq You're welcome, and I figured you'd already be a member. :-)

[@jamescarroll6954]

Some suggestions. Put the ket further back on the desk so your whole forearm rests on the desk. Keep your wrist and forearm more straight. Ergonomics. Trust me. I am 74 and have bad wrists because I neglected ergonomics. Adjust your key so less pressure and less travel is required to send. Minimize the pressure required to close the key.

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks James I hear ya.

[@Ron_C]

Motivating! I am so lazy with practicing to become proficient in decoding CW! This is a good motivator! I think you did great, by the way! Good thing you had your SKCC number memorized (or did you have it written out)? lol

[@hamradiocq]

I had to run upstairs and search for it online. : )

[@Ron_C]

@@hamradiocq I'm going to make a cheat sheet and laminate it....

[@davidtheriault7652]

Great video! Just got my Tech and a 7300. By the end of your video I was reliving my 12 GPM Air Force Radio Operator days.. 73 KO4KHB

[@hamradiocq]

That's so cool congrats on tech. There's just something magical about ham radio.

[@markanderson8066]

BTW - the "S" does not mean 5. We have the letter C, T, and S. It designates that you have met some criteria, basically talking to other members, C means a quantity of people without a letter, T means a quantity of SKCC folks with a letter and S means literally hundreds of fellow SKCC people with letters in their SKCC ID. I'm currently 14139T but getting very close to my S....

[@hamradiocq]

Thank you! I was wondering! I want to build up now. I have a challenge!

[@markanderson8066]

Way to go, Tom! Some tips - use a larger board with the key mounted to the back. That will stop it from wanting to tip over. Then put a piece of that rubber shelf liner under it - no more slip. Then you can leave your other hand free and not need to hold the base in place :) As forthy62 said, Junkers are good, I have a Navy Flameproof that is wonderful and I have home made two keys - one for home and one for portable. Pics in my QRZ page. Enjoy & hope to cu on the air! WB2SMK / Mark

[@hamradiocq]

Great ideas thank you. I'm a mess as of now.

[@markanderson8066]

Don't be hard on yourself! It takes time! I love that you're plugging away!

[@TechGearJunkie]

It sounds like you’re showing that key who’s boss. Good stuff! Maybe someday I’ll try a straight one.

[@hamradiocq]

I don't know about that, but I got thru and it was fun so SUCCESS! Yes try it, you'll be addicted. OLD SCHOOL CW

[@R2AUK]

Thanks for the video! But what was NR? Is it a log entry number? 73 de R2AUK

[@hamradiocq]

SKCC number. Straight Key Century Club..... user ID number

[@R2AUK]

@@hamradiocq Got it, thanks!

[@Phantom84021]

what antenna do you think would be best using the icom 7300 to listen and transmit and for range?

[@hamradiocq]

I wouldn't dare to suggest a specific antenna, but it depends a lot on your space, backyard and budget. If you are trying to stay cheap, then an inverted Vee, or some kind of dipole is really great. You can even make them. I use a G5RV, not that it's that great, but, I use an antenna tuner so I can tune it up and it works fine for my small space. If you can get a resonant dipole that's my favorite. but you have to consider what bands you like the most. I like 40 meters, 7Mhz area for ham listening and transmitting because it works at night as well as the day.

[@hamradiocq]

Antenna theory is a complex topic and many people have different opinions. If you have some hams local to your area talk to them and they can come and suggest some options for your particular yard. Some of the vertical style antennas require that you bury ground radial wires in the yard. That's something you may or may not be able to do. If you had a vertical tower type antenna, and buried ground radials I think that would be great. Just be prepared for some construction.

[@Phantom84021]

@@hamradiocqwhat is the best way to hang it

[@ЭлектроСафоново]

Прекрасная работа,Том !! Удачи. 73 из России.

[@gravestonemyth]

Want a real challenge? Try using your paddles as a sideswiper (cootie). I practiced for a while, got good enough, and started making QSOs. Now I’m utterly hooked. I easily hum along at 20 WPM. I can go faster if necessary, but more importantly I can easily go slower. Then there’s the bug. Morse code is the absolute best aspect of the hobby!

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks for the comment I really appreciate it.

[@stevewarner8880]

I'm back to CW after a long time away. I use a 7300 also. Some suggestions: put your key on a heavy base, tighten the contact space, lighten the spring tension and grip the knob. Lots of KZbin videos on the proper adjustment of keys. Maybe try a navy style knob, they are easier for me. Good luck, it gets easier 73

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah, I have a lot of upgrades I need to do. Can't tolerate the sliding of the paddle / key.

[@5x9withQSB]

Hi tom nice video, Have a play with the spacing on the key I find a narrower gap makes it easier also my straight key is mounted on a piece of granite to stop it moving. Nice work though keep it up!

[@hamradiocq]

Correct. AFter the video I did mess with spacing. I found too close together though was bad as too far apart. Have to practice more!

[@lindseymontana945]

Hi Tom, I would love a translation... I can follow the Morse but have no idea what all the abbreviations mean GL? BT? SK etc...

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks, Lindsey. See my more recent videos I provide translations for those.

[@grillsandaxlegrease3578]

That's funny - I can only use a straight key.. Never been any good with paddles. I'm a drummer so it's always been the only way. As others said - you need your arm on the table but the way you are doing this it would be easier with a little more distance in the travel of the unit.

[@billdecker2013]

I ran across this and found myself :) One thing I might share -- I found it works better to hold the edge of the knob with your fingers (except for little finger) rather than tap it. -- Bill, KG5OUH

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks for the tip...and comment.

[@kevinhillman1201]

Hi : Did you plug the straight key into the keyer jack? DE VE7WD

[@hamradiocq]

yes

[@roogalater]

Takes some getting used to, like any kind of key. I enjoy it though. At first, it's tiring because you tend to work harder than you need to. In time, a featherlight touch will do it and you can ramble on for hours. Kudos for trying it out 73 de G0IFI

[@hamradiocq]

: )

[@theexperimentalcqdx4208]

Very neat once again, love it

[@hamradiocq]

Thank you, love your channel name!

[@theexperimentalcqdx4208]

@@hamradiocq Thankyou

[@n4bc852]

Hey, Tom ... Practice makes perfect, they say. :-) You're doin' good ... much better than someone who never tries! 73 de Dick N4BC

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks, yeah, straight key isn't something you pickup immediately. Going to need to journey a bit. I'll be doing this again on Video Real SOON

[@MyTube4Utoo]

I could feel your excitement! *lol*

[@hamradiocq]

I hope you enjoyed!

[@MyTube4Utoo]

@@hamradiocq Very much so! My paddle arrived today, and my Vibroplex straight key should be here Friday. I'm as excited as I was when I passed my Novice exams. :-) Bad thing is, I'm not even sure I could pass the 5 wpm right now, but it's been probably two decades since I've done any CW, so I'll cut myself a little slack. *lol* Signed-up on ICWO.net earlier, and messed around a bit, and "rusty" doesn't quite cover it. *lol*

[@yanickch]

Great... Very nice QSO. Thanks for sharing! 73 de VE2YCF ... Yanick

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Mucho appreciado

[@Ruben-8689]

Interesting I wacht the video in march 2022...! I notice that you exchange a number (NR) I don't know what is the meaning. Please could you explain the mystery? HI. 73 from LU8DEH.

[@mi0vkomi0vko42]

SKCC is a great club TOM, the guy sent you the letter "S" denoting that he hold the senator award from SKCC, if you work 100 skcc members you can get your centurian award from SKCC, but use the skcc logger from the skcc website, keep up the good work, practice makes perfect, 73 de MI0VKO skcc nr 11913T the only tribune award holder on the island of ireland....

[@hamradiocq]

Wow, you are the only one in Ireland? That's an honor. I wanna be one now. SOmeday maybe we can work CW! I hope so.

[@witektaaham6297]

Hi, at first I think what kind of guy this is, but when I watched the whole video, I already liked you ... hold on, buddy, you will be useful, hi, hi ... just keep this key as telegraphists do ... best regards.

[@fireyourrocketts]

just got my general ticket, if i want to get into CW, what would be a good teaching material to get my feet wet into it? 73 from Rody, KI7CSI

[@hamradiocq]

I think maybr the Gordon west tapes first. Then extreme repitition. Google Gordon west cw

[@lonestarprepper0156]

Dog was loving that snow. :) goid vid thanks. 73 kg5yhm

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah, he was going crazy. He didn't want to come inside even!

[@mossycup6974]

Your timing is great on the SK. Get in a more comfortable, relaxed position and it will be more enjoyable and easier to focus on whats going on. 73 es 77 W9YAP

[@leericelli_w8rnb202]

Your key needs to be mounted on a longer piece of wood so your arm can rest on it for more comfort. Also when you do that you won’t need to hold the key down with your other hand.

[@hamradiocq]

Yep, Lee ur right.

[@MrRadiorobot]

It's not the key, it's the gap, needs narrowing a bit, I always find keying with a wide gap leads me to unnatural slightly disjointed character sending...make key adjustments to gap and spring tension until you find what is most natural to you, every op is different... Heavier base and blue tac (sticky tack) underneath to stick it to the bench..

[@hamradiocq]

You are correct, tnx for comment

[@AoifeNicSeain]

sure you know your code letters ;) so if you need to practice, you need to practice the manual skills :) try to key clean dits for one minute, then clean dahs for one minute and last didadidah... for one minute, and you will be perfect in no time :D

[@hamradiocq]

That's it! Great idea. Separate out my training and get it better.

[@thatonegayfurry4177]

good on ya mate me using a str8 key well it ends up sounding like sstv lol takes alot of skill an nice to see ya going it a go (dont take that as me thinking i know anything about straight keys or straight things in general) 73 vk2lyk

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah just like it says, first time banging on the key. No joke though it's pretty fun. More fun than Iambic. I can't explain why. Thanks for great comments as always furry one.

[@nomad5998]

hello tom good job welcome to SKCC HPECU in QSO best 73's F4CJH CHRIS

[@hamradiocq]

I think I'm already addicted to SKey!

[@adventuresofbobandlana4939]

I think you are having too much fun!

[@hamradiocq]

I was pretty happy to be understood. You got it!

[@kurtbrauer855]

Nice Video Tom Have same Key 🔑 here 73 Kurt HS0ZBS

[@hamradiocq]

That's cool. I like it. It does the job.

[@dennispeake1877]

G'day Tom, just watching you trying master the straight key and you don't look comfortable. One arm holding the key to the bench the other is hard to send. Tom, to get the balance and the key is with right hand. That block wood can be screwed to the bench or some thing heavier at bottom of the key so your not holding the key. Good video your doing well mate 73 de Dennis vk4oc.

[@hamradiocq]

Absolutely correct. I'm very uncomfortable. Much to do and learn. I will rig something up as you say so it doesn't move around. That's a joke. Ideally I'd want to send with my left hand and write with my right!

[@carlosfonsecaalmada]

Nice Job. 73's de CT1GFQ #466T

[@hamradiocq]

having fun, turnin the cam on. Thanks for comment Carlos!

[@fl96inches]

What...no easy button on this one? Lol

[@hamradiocq]

darn it I forgot to hit it. Maybe not so easy.